JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (Nov. 16, 2006) - Head coach Tony Skole announced the addition of two more local players Thursday afternoon, naming Science Hill seniors Chas Byrne and Paul Hoilman as the latest additions to his 2006 signing class.

A three-time letter-winner at Science Hill, Byrne was a District I All-Tournament selection in 2006, and the 2005 MVP of Kingsport Mets Classic.  The two-way star has excelled on both the pitching mound and in the field in his career, and was named a Johnson City Press Super 22 honorable mention.  Byrne's brother Shane wrapped up a record-breaking career for ETSU on the diamond this past season, finishing as the Buccaneers career hits leader.

"We are simply thrilled at Chas chose ETSU as the place where he wants to continue his baseball career and education.  Chas comes from great genes and our staff is excited to be able to coach another athlete from the Byrne family. Chas has really exploded the last 18 months and he is only going to get better.  He is a legitimate two-way player who is a threat offensively and on the mound.  It is going to be fun to watch into a dominant college player. The sky is the limit for Chas."

Also a two-way threat, Hoilman has earned first-team All-Conference, All-District and All-Region honors each of the past two seasons, including winning District Tournament MVP as a sophomore.  Over the past two seasons, Hoilman has hit .424 with eight home runs and 91 RBI, while compiling a 12-4 record and a 2.07 ERA.

"Paul has been one of the top players in our area and in the state of Tennessee over the past two years.  He is a winner and simply takes care of business.  Paul is going to make a huge impact on our program and our campus.  He is a phenomenal student has a very bright future.  WE are counting on Paul to be a threat for us on the mound and in batter's box.  If Paul continues to improve, he will grow into one of the top players in the Atlantic Sun Conference."

The Bucs open their 2007 baseball season February 9 at The Citadel.